Pittcity

Thank you.

Has anyone mentioned the fact that Travel Insurance will also cover you if anything happens to you or close family before the holiday? You are not entitled to a refund should you be too ill to go on your cruise. That is what the insurance is for. The insurance covers you from the day you take it out even if you only buy a week's cover. so the golden rule is to buy it on the same day as you book the holiday. https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/insurance/cheap-travel-insurance/ might help.

What about tipping tour drivers, guides and in restaurants? Will we need cash for that?

I'm in England and the weather in Netherlands and Belgium is similar to here. It is impossible to predict the weather but cool and wet is to be expected. Snow is not unknown but not a regular occurrence. Waterproof footwear is recommended. Wear layers with a waterproof top coat as temperature will go up and down.

We always go for the cheapest cabin and just sleep and shower there. The lounge is the place to be for views and you won't miss the surprises they sometimes throw in along the way. When moored you'd often have another ship alongside so no privacy on balcony. Portugal in October was very hot this year but could be rainy too.

Viking are giving away free Silver Spirits packages with river cruises at present. I'd contact them and ask for them to add it to your trip. Otherwise I'd not bother as the included drinks are good. Ask for a top-up at the end of dinner and you've got a drink to take away with you to start the evening. Then just pay as you go for other drinks as you'd need to be a big drinker to cover the cost of the package. There'll be plenty of opportunity to buy local drinks at the Christmas markets.

COVID is being treated like any other illness in the UK and many other European countries. If you feel ill don't mix with others as if you had a cold or the flu. Only a small minority are at risk of developing a serious case and that's the risk you run with any contagious illness. Wash your hands regularly, cover your nose and mouth for coughs and sneezes and keep up with your vaccination boosters. Enjoy your cruise and Carpe Diem.